Jakob Schneider

Norheimer Dellchen Riesling trocken 2025

Das Norheimer Dellchen gehört zu den markantesten Steillagen der Nahe – und dieser Riesling bringt seinen Ursprung mit großer Präzision zum Ausdruck. Die Kombination aus reifer Frucht, feiner Würze und markanter Mineralität macht ihn zu einem Wein mit viel Spannung und außergewöhnlicher Ausdruckskraft.

The 2025 Norheimer Dellchen Riesling Trocken (Golden Capsule) demonstrates that Jakob Schneider is capable not only of producing rigorous and terroir-driven wines but also Rieslings of considerable sensuality. Nestled between imposing rock formations on the border between Niederhausen and Norheim, the Dellchen is defined by small terraces of gray slate. The dry stone walls create a distinctive microclimate that allows the grapes to achieve full ripeness, generally somewhat earlier than in the Niederhäuser crus. Accordingly, the acidity tends to be gentler in profile, and that is certainly true of the 2025. The Dellechen's deep, almost golden color already hints at the wine's generosity. Yet for all its richness, the nose is above all refined and elegant, revealing delicate mineral spice and a cool saline note suggestive of finely weathered slate. Full-bodied and certainly ample, the wine nevertheless avoids heaviness. Its saline acidity lifts and energizes the palate, lending movement and grace rather than mere power—not a courtly dance of baroque excess but something closer to a Viennese waltz. Remarkably detailed and elegant in the mouth, the wine reveals much of its complexity only toward the finish and in the aftertaste. It is less baroque than ceremonial, recalling the sense of proportion and quiet grandeur of a Gothic cathedral rather than any display of ornament. Exceptionally persistent, the finish seems reluctant to let go, remaining both saline and intensely mouthwatering. A dry Nahe Riesling of uncommon refinement and presence, it matured 50% in 1,200-liter oak casks and 50% in stainless steel.

The 2025 Riesling Norheimer Dellchen comes from almost 60-year-old vines. Suppleness is evident on the nose, alongside a fully scented, salty-savory red apple vein. This is mysterious and charming on the nose. The palate falls into step with utter charm and suppleness, with salty-petrichor and zest-scented brightness. So much savor, smoothness and tension. This just thrills as the full picture and its utter, pristine purity. (Dry)

Stuart Pigott

This is still very young, but only the heartless (and those who hate Riesling of any kind) will fail to be moved by this masterpiece of ripeness and finesse! Enveloping yellow fruits, the finest silk and radical wet-stone minerality are perfectly interwoven. Extremely long, refined finish.